Irish League goalkeeper to undergo surgery after suffering serious injury in Boxing Day final
Rathfriland Rangers goalkeeper Ben McCauley is set to undergo surgery on Saturday after suffering a double fracture to his lower jaw during his side’s Bob Radcliffe Cup final victory over Dollingstown.
McCauley made four Premiership appearances for Carrick Rangers last season before joining Coagh United on loan and made a permanent move to third-tier Rathfriland ahead of the current campaign.
The 27-year-old has been a mainstay for Ally Wilson’s side this term, who sit fifth in the Premier Intermediate League and reached the Irish Cup fourth round before losing out to Strabane Athletic.
McCauley suffered a serious facial injury after only 13 minutes of Boxing Day’s showdown at Crystal Park and was replaced by 22-year-old Ryan Dalzell.
The substitute goalkeeper proved to be Rathfriland’s hero, saving all three Dollingstown penalties after the match was sent to spot-kicks with the two teams drawing 0-0 following extra-time.
Rathfriland produced a perfect set with Andy Kilmartin, Stephen McCavitt and Josh Cooper all burying their respective efforts to help the Iveagh Park outfit lift their fourth Bob Radcliffe Cup crown.
Celebrations were subdued as Rathfriland awaited an update on goalkeeper McCauley, who is now set for surgery at the Ulster Hospital.
"Although we were delighted to win the Bob Radcliffe Cup today, our celebration was tempered by a serious injury to goalkeeper Ben McCauley,” the club posted on social media on Friday evening. “Ben remains in the Ulster Hospital tonight awaiting surgery having suffered a double fracture of his lower jaw.
"Ben hoped to have the operation tonight but it has been put back to tomorrow. Ben has been great for us between the sticks this season and we wish him a full and speedy recovery.”